每个人都应该为地球尽一份力

The Forest Service is already taking action to reduce our impact on the environment.We must be thoughtful about the office supplies we use, the energy and water we consume, the efficiency of the vehicles we drive, and so much more.Across the Service, groups of employees are forming “Green Teams” to craft local solutions to sustainable operation.We are using energy and water more efficiently and shifting towards renewable energy sources such as solar power and biomass.We’re changing our travel practices and using hybrid vehicles and alternative fuels when we can.
By reducing our “environmental footprint” we can operate more sustainably and conserve natural resources in our forests and grasslands, and in our workplaces.It’s not only about ‘changing light bulbs’ – it’s about changing attitudes and behavior.We also have a responsibility to teach each other – and our communities –about the effects of climate change – and about how we can all be part of the solution.If we are to be conservation leaders, we must lead by example and each do our part.

The Forest Service was created in response to the destruction of forests and waterways in the late 19th Century.Throughout the 20th Century, we met other great challenges such as the Dust Bowl and the need for housing in the post-war baby boom.Tackling climate change will "require" the best ideas and efforts from every part of the Service. Trees, forests and forested ecosystems are key to addressing climate change. The Forest Service is uniquely qualified to address this challenge. We have a significant land base, a professional and committed work force, many years of research, and strong relationships with private, State and international natural resource managers. The Forest Service, and you, have a vital role to play.

Future generations will judge us on how we respond to the great conservation challenge of the 21st Century.